cycling

Leaves are dropping from the trees and you find yourself searching the far reaches of your closet for a flannel shirt. Suddenly you have an overwhelming desire for anything pumpkin spice...

FALL IS HERE!

Autumn trail

This doesn't mean you have to put your bike away just yet. Know that caution is needed when cycling during autumn months. The weather may be unpredictable with high winds and mixed precipitation, the sun is low and angled, and slippery wet surfaces or debris in the road can be a challenge. These are all good reasons to slow down and pay attention.

Be prepared for anything and carry a waterproof jacket, tool kit, tubes, water, a snack and a few dollars. Even if you don't need them, maybe you'll be able to help a fellow cyclist out with either a quick roadside repair or an energy boost.

Vilano Diverse 2.0 Performance Hybrid

It is a good year-round practice to make sure your bike is tuned correctly, but take an extra few minutes now and give it a once over.

Visually inspect the entire bicycle. Make sure the brakes are working well. Double and triple check that your front white light and rear red light's batteries are functioning. Look at the chain and go through the gears. Now is not the time to be stranded and unprepared! If it does happen, remember that AAA now offers roadside assistance to cyclists, too!

When you are ready to head out for a ride, wear bright clothing, and add reflective strips to your body parts that move (legs, shoes, wrists) for extra safety. If you wear a pack or bag, put reflective strips and a light on it also. Put a flashing light on the back of your helmet to be more visible. I love this idea as it puts light at a motorist's eye level.

Pumpkins = fall

The season's change should not prevent you from having fun out on the road or trails. There is even more reason to get out there, as studies show that regular exercise (like cycling every day for 1/2 hour) is great for the mind and the body.

In the market for an affordable 29er MTB Mountain Bike? Look no further! The 2015 Vilano Blackjack 2.0 is here, and it’s been completely revamped for the new year.

Vilano Blackjack 2.0 29er Mountain Bike

The 2015 Vilano Blackjack 2.0 29er MTB Mountain Bike now features a hand built hydroformed alloy frame, and its larger 30.9mm diameter seatpost saves weight and while adding stiffness, giving you more control over your ride. With the new frame also comes new geometry, designed with maximum comfort and increased performance in mind.

An upgraded drivetrain, (3x8 Shimano Altus 24 speed) brings more gear options and smoother shifting. Match that with the disc brakes new larger 160mm rear rotor for maximum stopping power, and you have complete control over your ride. Don’t forget the 100mm front suspension paired with the large double walled 29” alloy wheels, a power combo that can handle any obstacle that the trails put in your way.

Whether you’re new to the world of mountain biking, or an experienced rider looking for an affordable way to explore the world of 29ers, the new Vilano Blackjack 2.0 was designed for you. Check it out for yourself at RoadBikeOutlet